Après ski season has landed in London.

This year has been a whirlwind, between lockdowns, staying at home, tiers and tears. So when plans of a Christmas skiing holiday were looking less and less attainable, I jumped at the chance to visit The Montague on the Gardens... ditching the airfare and opting instead for this Bloomsbury-based lodge. 

Tucked away just moments from The British Library, The Montague on the Gardens is a welcome escape from the heaving West End streets. Glowing red fairy lights line the exterior, giving way to a grand hotel decked out with Christmas trees and rich red tones. Masks on and hands sanitised, we made our way to the outdoor pop-up, filled with barrel-chairs, cosy throws and a ski-style chalet.

As 'snow' fell around us, we started off with a mulled white wine; muted but still as flavourful as the original. Substantial meal? You bet. The ski lodge pass (£38) includes 3 drinks and a platter featuring a mini bratwurst hotdog, turkey schnitzel and deep-fried camembert. Skipping schnapps and flavoured vodka, we kept cosy with more mulled sips and a Baileys-soaked, marshmallow-topped hot chocolate. It doesn't get much more hygge than this. 

The DesignMyNight Digest

Offering a tranquil retreat from hectic shoppers and turbulent times, The Montague on the Gardens Ski Lodge is one for your post-Christmas wish list. Whether it's a snowy date night or meet-up with your bubble, ditch the base layers and grab a winter warmer here once London life resumes.

The Montague on the Gardens Ski Lodge is taking bookings from 18th January until 14th February 2021. You can find the alpine pop-up on Montague Street, London, WC1B 5BJ.